Andy Murray v Rafael Nadal: Murray goes mental for Wimbledon clash

Andy Murray admits he is the underdog in Friday’s semi-final clash with
Rafael Nadal, but believes a strong mental edge can see him end Britain’s 72-year wait for a Wimbledon men’s finalist.

Andy Murray is preparing for a semi-final showdown against Rafael Nada

Murray produced one of the best performances of his career when the pair last met in the quarter-finals of the Australian Open in January. The Scot was two sets and 3-0 ahead before Nadal retired with knee trouble.

However, despite that victory Murray is under no illusion about the task ahead against a man who is on a 12-match winning streak at the All England Club, having won the title in 2008 but been unable to defend it last year because of his knee problems.

Murray said: ‘He will definitely be the favourite with his results here the last few years.

‘He obviously didn’t get a chance to defend his title last year, but he’s played three finals in a row and now he’s in the semis here.

‘Psychologically I need to believe that I can win the match. That’s the most important thing.’

Murray certainly knows what to expect from Nadal, having played him ten times – winning just three.

Their only previous match at Wimbledon came in the quarter-finals two years ago, which Nadal won easily. A defeat that persuaded Murray he needed to work on his fitness.

Asked the secret to beating the Spaniard he added: ‘You need to serve well and play great tennis. You don’t want to leave the ball in the middle of the court to his forehand, because you’ll do a lot of running.

‘You’ve got to serve well, try to keep a good length and play really, really, really well.’